President Droupadi Murmu presented the 72nd National Film Awards at a ceremony held at Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, Gujarat on September 22, 2026. During the event, she conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024 upon veteran actor Anant Nag in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema, noting that his acting represents a synthesis of theatre and cinema with natural, restrained, and authentic performances.
The President highlighted several award-winning films that address significant societal and national issues. These include 'Article 370' which presents challenges to national unity and their solutions, 'Bhangaar' which explores dimensions of life and death, 'Swatantrya Veer Savarkar' as an artistic tribute to Veer Savarkar's life story, and 'Bhakshak' which raises awareness about women's safety issues. The Santhali film 'Angen' received national recognition, fostering cultural diversity and social inclusion.
President Murmu emphasized the importance of women's participation in regional juries to ensure a holistic human perspective in film selection. She called for maintaining respect and sensitivity toward all team members in the film industry's work culture, particularly urging key representatives to ensure that workers, small-scale artists, assistants, and strugglers receive due respect and social security.
The President also addressed the influence of film celebrities on youth, urging them not to endorse products harmful to health and emphasizing that true stars should spread light rather than darkness. The ceremony was held near the Statue of Unity and Wall of Unity, symbolizing the cultural unity of India.